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On November 15th, STEER advisors participated in an impactful professional development workshop designed to strengthen leadership abilities and enhance mental performance, essential components in supporting student success across their districts. The session opened with an inspiring presentation from Dr. Brandon Beck, who focused on helping advisors ignite their inner fire as leaders. His motivational message, combined with practical insights and uplifting energy, left a strong impression on participants. STEER advisors also benefited from a powerful segment led by Hector Morales Negron, PhD, CMPC, ACSM-CPT, who introduced evidence-based strategies for achieving peak mental performance. His guidance provided valuable tools that can be applied by both students and the educators who support them daily. The workshop served as a powerful reminder of the commitment STEER advisors make to their students. Their passion and persistence continue to drive meaningful growth and development. With each new skill and strategy, they help students move closer to achieving their full potential.
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We are excited to share that Patrick Durney recently made an appearance on Non-Profit Voices of Impact, a series by The Business Council of Westchester. During the episode, Patrick joined Linda Tyler, Vice President of Membership, and Jonathan Alvarez of 914United for an engaging discussion about driving meaningful impact in Westchester County. He shared insights into the work being done at STEER for Student Athletes, highlighting the organization’s mission and the programs that are empowering young athletes to succeed both on and off the field. Patrick also reflected on his personal journey and how it continues to fuel his passion for STEER’s mission, offering listeners a unique perspective on leadership, community engagement, and the importance of supporting student-athletes in achieving their full potential. The episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in nonprofit leadership, community impact, and the inspiring stories of those making a difference in Westchester County.
Through a collaboration with Eastern FC and U.S. Soccer, STEER provided CSEE high school students with the opportunity to take on leadership roles within their community. They completed coaching certification programs and gained valuable, hands-on experience by guiding, refereeing, and supporting younger athletes. These experiences not only helped students discover new interests and potential career paths in sports leadership and youth development, but also enabled them to make a lasting impact showing younger players what it means to lead while strengthening the connection between education, athletics, and community service.
Port Chester student athletes have been making a difference off the field through a series of October volunteer initiatives aimed at fighting food insecurity in the community. Recently, Our student athletes dedicated their time at the Carver Center’s Food Market, where they stocked and restocked shelves, assisted community members at checkout, and helped maintain a clean and welcoming space. Their teamwork and commitment supported the Carver Center’s mission to provide essential food resources to local families in need.In another effort, Our student athletes joined Meals on Main Street’s “Muffin Monday” initiative, spending the afternoon baking muffins, assembling goodie bags, and ensuring that all goods were ready for next day delivery. The initiative provided nutritious snacks to community members through the power of community service. Volunteering their time, Our student athletes exemplified STEER’s goal of developing compassionate leaders both on and off the field!
On Saturday, October 18th, Yonkers Mayor Mike Spano and City Council President Lakisha Collins-Bellamy visited CSEE to cheer on participants in the CSEE STEER Elementary Soccer Program, and to treat the young athletes to ice cream after their session! The program, co-sponsored by the PTO and STEER, provides more than 200 elementary-aged students with weekly soccer instruction in a fun, supportive, and structured environment. Through STEER’s partnership with Eastern FC and U.S. Soccer, CSEE high school students in the STEER program become certified coaches and serve as mentors, referees, and role models for the younger players. This hands-on experience exposes them to potential career pathways in coaching, officiating, and youth mentorship while inspiring the next generation of student-athletes to learn, lead, and play with purpose. We’re excited to share a special conversation featuring Dr. Joe Durney, CEO of STEER for Student Athletes, and Bobby Harrington, a longtime STEER supporter, entrepreneur, successful businessman, and advocate for youth development through sports.
In this engaging episode, Dr. Durney and Bobby discuss the life lessons learned through athletics—from discipline, teamwork, and perseverance to finding purpose and making an impact beyond the playing field. Their conversation explores how the values built in sport can translate into success in professional life and help individuals lead with integrity and resilience. Bobby’s reflections on his journey as both a business leader and lifelong athlete offer authentic insights into what it means to live with purpose and support the next generation through mentorship and community engagement. Whether you’re a student, athlete, educator, or supporter, this is an inspiring reminder that the lessons we learn on the field can guide us throughout life—in work, relationships, and service to others. Check it out! We are thrilled to share that the Second Annual STEER Olympics was a resounding success! Hosted with incredible generosity by Kelly and AJ LeGaye, the day was filled with energy, camaraderie, and purpose as our community came together to celebrate and support our student-athletes. The event not only raised vital funds but also elevated STEER’s visibility, reminding us all of the collective impact we can make when we rally behind our mission.
We extend our deepest gratitude to everyone who made this day possible, including our food truck sponsors, Board Chairman Mike Eck and Kevin O’Callaghan, as well as our dedicated planning committee: Jason Feinberg, Samita Mannapperuma, Javier Martinez, Kelly LeGaye, and Astrid Vargas. Special thanks also go to Master of Ceremonies Mike DeSimone, COO Patrick Durney, Intern AJ Marini, our staff Myles, Jevon, and Camille, and volunteer Mary Durney for ensuring a seamless experience. Most importantly, we are grateful to all participants and donors whose contributions fuel our ability to serve students! We are incredibly proud of our Chief Operating Officer, Patrick Durney, who has been named one of the Business Council of Westchester’s Rising Stars: 40 Under 40 on September 16, 2025. Patrick’s leadership and dedication have been instrumental to our success and he stands as yet another shining example of the extraordinary people who devote their talents to supporting our student-athletes!
Today, we're launching our next chapter: 350 by 2030. Through this initiative, we aim to transform the lives of 350 student-athletes by 2030, helping them not only succeed in high school but also thrive in college and beyond. See the Impact. See the Future. Check out this video to celebrate what we’ve accomplished together, and where we’re headed next. |
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